An investigation into oil spill dynamics affected by floe-like obstacles with various distributions

Abstract

This study investigates the spreading behavior of oil spills under simulated Arctic sea ice conditions with varying concentrations below 60%. Experiments were conducted in a controlled environment using PVC pipes to mimic sea ice obstacles at concentrations of 13.4%, 26.7%, and 53.4%. Results showed that at lower concentrations, oil spreading isotropically in a circular pattern, while at the highest concentration, the spreading became anisotropic, forming a diamond shape influenced by the obstacle arrangement. Contrary to conventional numerical models that assume decreased diffusion rates with increased ice concentration, the findings suggest that the diffusion rate can increase at higher concentrations due to the spatial arrangement of obstacles. The study also highlights the predominant role of surface tension in driving oil spreading when the oil thickness is below 2 mm. These insights call for refinements in current models of oil spill behavior in ice-covered waters, emphasizing the need to consider both obstacle arrangement and interfacial dynamics for better spill prediction and management in Arctic regions.